(Agencies)
Updated: 2008-02-15 09:04

MADRID - Real Madrid striker Raul and goalkeeper Iker Casillas have signed contract extensions that will keep them at the Primera Liga club for the rest of their playing careers.

Spain's first-choice goalkeeper Casillas, 26, has tied himself to Real until 2017 while club captain Raul, 30, extended his deal by one year to 2011.

Real Madrid striker Raul (L) and goalkeeper Iker Casillas take part in a training session in 2007. The pair will end their careers with the Spanish champions after signing new extended contracts. [Agencies]

Both agreements will automatically roll over beyond the contracted periods if the players complete 30 official matches in the previous season. A similar deal is also on the table for Real midfielder Guti.

"Iker Casillas and Raul have both agreed to stay with the club for the rest of their sporting lives," Real president Ramon Calderon told a news conference on Thursday.

"On this day, which is Valentine's day, Iker, Raul and Real can say they love each other, they need each other, and complement each other and will commit for life.

"I am not going to speak about money but I can say they will earn less than they deserve because the example they set for the young and the enthusiasm they transmit to the fans isn't quantifiable and you cannot put a value on it."

Both players entered Real's first team from the youth ranks, Raul in 1994 and Casillas in 1999, and have become stalwarts in the side.

Casillas, who has won two European Cups and three league titles with Real, said: "This allows me to complete another wish of mine which is stay here for many years."

Raul, who has won three European Cups and five league titles at the club added: "This was all sorted out in five minutes because it was always the intention of both parties that I continue."

Later on Thursday, Calderon told radio Marca: "Next week, it will be the same with Guti, another symbolic player for the club. We haven't signed yet because he is a little lazier, but it will be with the same conditions."

The 31-year-old's current deal expires in 2010.